Warzycha, 50, is tied for the club’s all-time lead in wins (70). After taking over as coach
following the 2008 season, he was signed to an extension in 2009 that was guaranteed through the
end of 2013 with a club option for two more seasons. Technical director Brian Bliss will step in as
the interim coach and fill both roles.

“I said that I would take the necessary time to be thoughtful and evaluate where we needed to
make changes,” investor-operator Anthony Precourt, who purchased the team in July 30, said in a
statement. “When we came to the conclusion that we were not going to retain Robert beyond this
season, it was apparent that we needed to make this change now so that we can refocus the club
around Brian’s leadership for the remainder of this season, as well as get the process started on
finding a new head coach.”

Assistants Ricardo Iribarren and Scoop Stanisic have been let go while Mike Lapper will
remain on staff.

Since moving into a tie with Tom Fitzgerald for most wins as a head coach in club history,
the Crew suffered a 4-0 road loss to Real Salt Lake and a 1-0 home loss to a Seattle team that
played with 10 men for the final 83 minutes.

Fans have thrown pink slips in the air when Warzycha’s name has been announced before home
games this season, and strong rumblings about Warzycha’s status with the team started immediately
after the loss to the Sounders. Reporters were asked to leave the locker room so Warzycha could
address the team, but it is not believed that the coach delivered any sort of goodbye speech. The
Crew will practice today and Tuesday in advance of Wednesday’s home game against Houston.

“Following a thorough evaluation of the club with Anthony (Precourt), we determined that
Robert’s contract would not be extended beyond 2013,” team president and general manager Mark
McCullers said. “Rather than wait until the end of the season, we felt that the best interests of
the club and Robert would be served by making this change now. We believe our team can still
accomplish more this season and that a change in coaching leadership under Brian would be a
motivating factor for the club.”

The Crew is eight points out of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with eight
games to play.

Bliss becomes the sixth head coach in Crew history. He played for the club from 1996-97 and
is former United States national team member.

“Sometimes in these situations a fresh perspective and a new voice are needed,” Bliss said. “
I’m confident in our players and the talent on our roster. I know these guys have a lot of fight in
them, and they have the desire to continue battling and finish strong. Our fans deserve to see the
best out of this team, and I plan to do what’s necessary to make that happen.”